Companies looking for a simple method of connecting a local area network (LAN) onto the Internet now have the option of using a new product from SMC Networks, specialist LAN solutions provider to the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) market.
Greg Perkins, country manager, SMC Networks SA, says the EZ Connect Internet hub offers a cost effective and easy way to access the Internet from a LAN using analogue phone lines or ISDN. "It can also be used as a dual speed hub, remote access server, security control and Internet sharing device," he adds.
As well as its eight dual-speed Fast Ethernet ports the SMC EZ Connect Internet hub features two modem/ISDN terminal adapter (TA) connections, allowing multiple users to connect to the Internet by sharing one or two dial-up accounts.
"As Internet access is provided to multiple users through a shared IP address, up to eight users can browse the web at the same time," says Perkins. "Because of the product`s dual-serial port design, additional modems or ISDN TAs can be automatically brought on line to provide additional bandwidth as and when required."
Remote workers - such as those in another office, working from home or on the road - can dial-in and gain full access to the LAN or Internet using the SMC EZ Connect Internet hub`s modem / ISDN connections.
An optional call back function is also provided so callers can reverse charges if desired. - a particularly useful function for those calling in from hotels where outgoing call charges are often more expensive. Dial-up identification and dial-in connection are also supported.
The SMC EZ Connect Internet hub can be used as a Firewall to prevent unauthorised remote access to the LAN via fixed accounts. It can also deny Internet access to specified users or filter all requests for specific services so the network administrator can determine which should be met. Security protocols supported include PPP, PAP and CHAP.
The use of a fixed IP address means a virtual host can be set up for network address translation allowing Internet users to access various services via a constant IP address.
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SMC
SMC Networks is a leading provider of reliable and compatible network interface cards, hubs and switches. It specialises in LAN solutions for the SME enterprise and corporate business sectors. Worldwide, SMC delivers network solutions through an infrastructure of local distributors and VAR partners. SMC has representative offices worldwide including North America, Europe, Australia, Asia and Japan. SMC`s Northern European headquarters are based in Bracknell and its products are available in the UK through distributor relationships with C2000, Ideal Hardware, llion and Micro P.